Arsenal like Ünder, Monchi working towards his contract renewal

La Gazzetta dello Sport (Zucchelli): In Turkey, they are certain: Arsenal is ready to make a serious approach for Cengiz Ünder. The Roma attacker has all the qualities they’re looking for — he’s technically strong, young and he’s already an expert in European and Champions League football and also has affordable wages. The renewal of the Turk’s contract has yet to be discussed with Roma. That’s why Monchi will soon meet his agent, with the hope, perhaps, of having more strength on his side if an approach is made. An important question will be asked during these talks: to insert or not insert a buyout clause? Currently, Ünder doesn’t have one in his contract, however, should one be included, it could exceed 40 million euros. The youngster will return to Trigoria after national team duty with Turkey, but it’s unlikely that he will start against Udinese, as Kluivert and El Shaarawy are the favorites.

JANUARY – In the meantime, Monchi continues to work on the winter transfer market. Coric could be loaned to an Italian side (Parma and Udinese like him), and the situation of Karsdorp should be watched closely, while Perotti, who is liked by Villarreal, does not seem to have any intention of leaving. As for incoming players, the sporting director is looking for a defender at a low cost if Marcano leaves and continues to try for a midfielder. The favorite was and remains Donny van de Beek (the 21 year old of Ajax), but he’ll likely be discussed for the summer. For now, Roma has no intention of making major investments, as De Rossi, as it seems, will overcome his knee problems without requiring an operation while Zaniolo continues to grow.

The Editor of RomaPress.us, John has been covering Italian football as a freelance journalist for over 10 years and has appeared in various publications including ASRoma.com, EuroFantasyLeague.com, and ESPN.